Read at the Funeral by Hana Hardzog, Earl's Neice

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Earl Preston Bailey Jr., 61, was born on September 16, 1964, in Bremerhaven, Germany, and passed away peacefully at home on January 1, 2026.

Earl was preceded in death by his dad Earl Bailey Sr., mother, Hanako Bailey, his infant brother, Byron, and daughter Victoria

Earl graduated from Eisenhower High School, where he also attended Great Plains Vo-Tech during his junior and senior years and was recognized as an Outstanding Student. While still in school, he began working for Cecil Lawson Buick-Cadillac and continued his employment there after graduation, beginning a lifelong career in automotive technology and education.

Earl went on to teach automotive technology at Great Plains Technology Center and Francis Tuttle, where he shared his knowledge, skill, and passion with countless students. For the final 15 years of his career, he worked for Snap-On Tools as the National Business and Education Partnerships Manager, a role that allowed him to combine his technical expertise with his deep commitment to education, mentorship, and service on a national and global level.

Earl is survived by his loving wife, Lori; his daughter, Alexa; his son, Trevor; his daughter-in-law, Sabrina; and his granddaughters, Presley, Chandler and Taniya, his brother Mike and beloved nieces and nephews

Earl will be remembered for his Christ centered life, dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, and the lasting impact he made on those he taught and worked alongside. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.